An Introduction to Forensics

How can we think analytically and critically about criminal investigation? How is a crime scene analyzed? How are crimes solved? This program will focus on the forensic science perspective in order to investigate crime and societal responses to it. Through our forensics investigations, we will learn biology, chemistry, pathology, and physics. We will study evidentiary techniques for crime scene analysis, such as the examination of fingerprints, DNA, blood spatter, fibers, glass fractures and fragments, hairs, ballistics, teeth, bones, and body remains. Hands-on laboratory and field approaches will be key in our weekly learning. We will also learn to apply analytical, quantitative, and qualitative skills to the collection and interpretation of evidence. Students can expect seminars, labs, lectures, and workshops, along with both individual and group project work. This is an introductory program about science; critical thinking, chemistry, and biology as applied to crime analysis. Students interested in developing their skills in scientific inquiry, critical thinking, and interdisciplinary studies should consider this program.

Juniors or Seniors who are interested in this program can contact the faculty to discuss enrollment options and obtain a signature to register.

Anticipated Credit Equivalencies:

4 - Forensic Science with Laboratory: Time of Death, Materials Evidence and Patterns Evidence

3 - Forensic Science with Laboratory: Toxicology and Serology

4 - Forensic Science with Laboratory: DNA Analysis and Blood Spatter

2 - Forensic Science with Laboratory: Ballistics and Tool Markings

3 - Quantitative Reasoning, Data Analysis and Presentation